Page:Historical records of the 40th (2nd Somersetshire) regiment.djvu/16

 particular notice. Written with an intimate knowledge of the subject,—gained from family papers and other sources—besides being a valuable memoir of a really remarkable life, it gives details of early days in Nova Scotia, which have an important bearing on regimental matters. The letter from Colonel Stretton regarding the Action in front of Pampeluna, and the Adventure of Lieutenant Meason in Afghanistan, are also of peculiar interest as personal reminiscences of the stirring events to which they refer.

A word must now be said on other matters. As mentioned above, the 40th Regiment has long been without a regimental history, and that which follows is the first which has ever been published. Two previous attempts to provide this deficiency have, however, been made:—one in 1891, when the present writer compiled a short record, of one hundred and twenty pages, on the occasion of the presentation of new colours; and another about fifteen years ago, when Captain F. Hibbert Nelson, of the 40th, devoted much time and labour to collecting facts regarding the regiment, with a view to publishing its history. The result of his labours was printed in India, in pamphlet form, but was never placed before the public, and his much-lamented death, in 1879, prevented the completion of the useful work which he had commenced.

The writer's acknowledgments are due to Captain Nelson, for valuable assistance obtained from his pamphlets in compiling the records of the regiment between 1717 and 1807.

He has also to thank numerous friends, past and present officers of the regiment and others, who—by supplying information and in various other ways—have contributed towards the completion of this work. Space does not admit of mentioning all by name, but a few exceptions must be made.

Among these is Mr. S. M. Milne, of Calverley House, Leeds, who has most kindly given the writer the full benefit of his exceptional knowledge regarding military antiquarian research. By his careful